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Davidson County Community College Students Make Frequent International Connections

Nov. 21, 2013 – At Davidson County Community College, students are being prepared to make important business connections. For the students enrolled in an International Business class, a recent class period was spent exchanging PowerPoint presentations, social statistics and general questions related to entrepreneurship with students from Bordeaux, France.

For the past eight years, the International Business class at DCCC has participated in live video conference calls with students of Lycee Bremontier, which is located in Bordeaux. Appropriately titled, “French Connection,” students from both schools meet “virtually” three times per semester to share presentations and discuss relevant business-related topics. However, for instructor Cheryl Komasara, there is more to these calls than simply PowerPoint presentations.

“The students are responsible for going out, doing the research, preparing the PowerPoint and presenting, but the main objective isn’t the presentation – it’s the discussion that takes place between the two groups,” Komasara explains. “Sometimes we just have introductions where the students simply get to know each other. Occasionally, there are communication issues, but most of the time we are able to make that connection between us.”

Jeff Holmes, a student in the International Business class, was one of two presenters during the call. Along with fellow presenter Cassie Hodgin, Holmes provided his French counterparts with an American perspective on entrepreneurship, along with his own point-of-view.

“Entrepreneurship means starting a company in the local area, helping out the local economy and giving back to the local community,” says Holmes.

The presentation, which was prepared by Holmes and his classmates, largely focused on local entrepreneur and racing icon, Richard Childress. Holmes chose to feature Childress, a resident of northwestern Davidson County, noting that Childress had not only made his mark on the community through his success in NASCAR, but also though the creation of the Childress Institute for Pediatric Trauma (CIPT), as well as his work with and support of local schools – including those in the community college system.

“He’s a success story,” says Holmes. “When you consider where he started and where he has ended up … he is definitely a role model and I think a lot of people would like to pattern themselves after him.”

Komasara adds, “I think the students get a good idea of the similarities and differences between the two countries whether it’s doing business – or life in general – and it exposes them to another culture so to speak.”

Those interested in sitting in on future classes or simply learning more about the class and its “French Connection” program may contact Komasara by email at ckomasara0516@davidsonccc.edu.

*Editor’s Note: Pictured are members of the “French Connection” team. From left to right are Cassie Hodgin, Incosmea Thomas, Melody Everhart, Denise Logan, Amelia Grant, Angela Milner, Ian Cooper and Jeff Holmes (front).

Founded in 1963, Davidson County Community College is noted for its quality educational programs and services. As one of 58 institutions within the North Carolina Community College System, DCCC offers studies in more than 50 degree programs. A fully-accredited, multi-campus college, DCCC celebrates its 50th anniversary this year. It is committed to developing minds, inspiring imaginations, and preparing students for enhanced career and educational opportunities within a changing global environment. Visit Davidson County Community College on the Web at davidsonccc.edu.